Laura Sharman 21 August 2017

Analysis shows 22 million votes were 'wasted' in General Election

More than 20 million votes had no impact on the result of the 2017 General Election, according to new analysis by the Electoral Reform Society.

The report into the ‘first past the post’ voting system found 68% of votes were ‘wasted’ in this election, with 6.5 million people voting tactically.

It revealed that the Conservatives would have secured a majority government if just 0.0016% of voters had voted differently.

The ERS argues that the system is ‘exaggerating divisions’ in the UK pointing to the fact Labour secured 29% of South East vote but got just 10% of seats, while the Tories won 34% of the North East vote but got just 9% of seats.

‘For the third time in a row, Westminster’s voting system has failed to do what it says on the tin – produce a “strong and stable” government,’ said chief executive of the ERS, Darren Hughes.

He added: ‘This surge in tactical voting – double the rate of 2015 – meant voters shifted their party allegiances at unprecedented rates, with the second highest level of voter volatility since the inter-war years. A system designed for two parties cannot accommodate these complex electoral swings.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Public Health Principal

Oxfordshire County Council
£63576 - £67003
Oxfordshire County Council is seeking a skilled Public Health Principal for a full-time, fixed-term maternity cover. Based in Central Oxford with hybrid working (approximately two days per week in-office), this senior role leads the Live Well Promote and Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Senior Property and Asset Manager - Braintree District Council

Essex County Council
Negotiable
Senior Property and Asset Manager - Braintree District CouncilBraintree District CouncilPermanent, Full TimeFrom £65,433 to £71,436 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Planning Projects Officer

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Help shape the future of our borough - from idea to delivery, you'll lead projects that make our neighbourhoods greener, fairer and better places to l England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Deputy Procurement Manager

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£46,206 - £55,992 per annum
Can you see yourself playing an important role in leading the team who procure private sector properties (PRS) and long-term temporary accommodation for homeless families across Richmond and Wandsworth? If so, this is a unique opportunity to work for a gr London, Wandsworth
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Residential Assistant

Essex County Council
£25081.00 - £25395.00 per annum
Residential AssistantPermanent, Full Time£25,081 up to £25,395 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner